Check In / Follow Up Emails After Failed Recruitment
Context: Heard about Sales and trading late January and did my best to recruit with a late start, was able to have 2 superdays but was not able to get an offer for S&T. Had phone calls with around 40-50 in that time period.
Would it be worth it reaching back out to these people, thanking them once again, and possibly asking for any advice on what I should do next / asking on their bank's cycle recruitment policy.
Or would this come off strange as I do not have anything substantial to update them with and I am letting them know of my failure in recruitment which may not be the best look. But then again I didn't get a spot so what do I have to lose.
Reaching back out to your contacts after a failed recruitment process can be a strategic move if done thoughtfully. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can approach this:
Express Gratitude: Start your email by sincerely thanking them for their time and guidance during your previous conversations. Acknowledge their support and the insights they shared.
Frame the Situation Positively: Instead of focusing on the failure, frame it as a learning experience. Mention that while you didn’t secure a spot this time, you gained valuable insights and are determined to improve for the next opportunity.
Ask for Advice: Politely ask if they have any advice on how to strengthen your candidacy or navigate the recruitment process moving forward. This shows humility and a willingness to learn.
Inquire About Future Opportunities: If appropriate, ask about their bank’s recruitment cycle or any upcoming opportunities. This keeps the door open for future engagement.
Keep It Brief and Professional: Avoid overloading the email with unnecessary details. Be concise, respectful, and professional in your tone.
Here’s a sample email template you could use:
Subject: Thank You and Seeking Advice
Dear [Contact’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to thank you again for your time and guidance during my recruitment process earlier this year. Your insights into [specific topic discussed] were incredibly helpful and greatly appreciated.
While I wasn’t able to secure a spot this time, the experience has been a valuable learning opportunity, and I’m committed to improving for the future. If you have any advice on how I can strengthen my candidacy or insights into your bank’s recruitment cycle, I would be truly grateful.
Thank you once again for your support, and I hope to stay in touch. Please let me know if there’s any way I can return the favor in the future.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
This approach demonstrates professionalism, gratitude, and a growth mindset, which can leave a positive impression and keep the relationship warm for future opportunities.
Sources: Non-Target Recruiting Guide Part I: Resume and Networking, The Best Networking, Cold Calling and Cold Emailing Posts on WSO, On Campus Recruitment and Networking: A guide, Want to get me on the phone? Here's how - a networking overview., Non-Target Recruiting Guide Part I: Resume and Networking
Its not over yet, have a few buddies who are still interviewing. I would still reach out to people but don't make it seem like you "failed." Just show that you are still interested and imo you don't have to have something significant to update them. Say you had a few more questions based on your previous conversation given the things you have been reading about since you spoke with them.
Got it thank you! Do you think it would be a little pushy/redundant to ask for a phone call for these questions?
yes, just email. Let them be the one to offer a phone call.
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